“Be our sixteenth man”

A large crowd is expected on Saturday at Maes y Dre when the old enemy Newtown Rugby Club pays a visit.

In one of the most anticipated derbies for many years, only a point separates the two in Division Two North East with both sides ambitious to step up.

“The lads have been playing some excellent rugby this season, and are showing so much heart and passion as they represent the town, which has been reflected in the strong crowds our home games have had so far this season,” said Welshpool RFC’s Barry Williams.

“Whilst we anticipate a strong attendance from our club members, and Newtown will likely bring a large following with them as well, we would like to invite the whole town along to get behind the boys and be the ‘16th Man’ in this vital clash.

“We're hoping that we can produce an attendance that is comparable with the best crowds in Welsh community rugby next weekend, with attendances of 300 to 400 being common in the Welsh Premiership, and put both clubs at the forefront of the community game.”

Newtown currently sit in fourth on 11 points from five games, whilst Welshpool are in sixth on 10 points from four games, so this is a vitally important fixture for both sides.

There’s plenty going on at the club on Saturday, with junior games taking place from 1.30pm before the main event at 2.30pm followed by live music from local duo One Crow Sorrow in the clubhouse at 6pm.